Clemson’s Defensive X-Factor against Appalachian State

After Clemson’s brutal Week 1 loss to the No. 1 Georgia Bulldogs, Clemson linebacker Barrett Carter has to rebound against Appalachian State today.

Carter, talent-wise, is arguably the best linebacker in the country. Talent doesn’t take you all the way, though, with the star on defense returning for another season with the Tigers to refine his game. While there’s no doubt he will continue to improve as the year goes on and further work towards solidifying himself as a first-round pick in the 2025 NFL draft, we saw some of the holes in his game against the Bulldogs.

A few poor angles and bad tackling mechanics kept Carter quiet against the Bulldogs, with 3 total tackles on the day. Clemson simply needs more from their star linebacker.

Carter is due for a big game against App State as he and the team look to get back on track.